With a total of 23 teams representing our school, Somerset College debaters showcased their exceptional skills and unwavering determination as they competed in the preliminary rounds of the Gold Coast Debating Competition this semester.
Both new and returning debaters embraced the challenge of a wide range of thought-provoking topics this season. Junior Division students from Years 7 and 8 argued the intriguing dilemmas such as "Early birds are better than night owls" and "Disney movies give children unrealistic expectations in life”. Our older students grappled with profound subjects including "Monarchies are still relevant" and "People's actions matter more than their intentions” in the Intermediate A and Open A competitions. Many of these topics were analysed and argued under a significant time constraint, with preparation times ranging from nearly two hours to just one hour before students were expected to debate.
Impressively, 13 of our teams won the majority of their debates, securing a spot in the upcoming finals season in Term Three. These debates will now continue as elimination rounds, with all teams aiming to compete at the Gold Coast Debating Grand Final at Bond University in Week 6.
Congratulations to all these students on the outstanding calibre of your debates this season. The exemplary skills shown throughout all divisions is a perfect demonstration of the dedication you all have to this craft, and the Somerset Debating Programme continues to grow and thrive due to your efforts.
If you are interested in being involved in the Debating Programme, look out for notices in Semester Two for opportunities including the Gold Coast Primary Schools Debating Competition and the A.B. Paterson Public Speaking Competition.
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